we had seasons in the sun

This guy, right here. This guy is the best dad a girl could ever ask for. We have had so many ridiculous adventures together, both here in Canada and abroad. I am who I am because he is my dad. He has been my father, my colleague, my adviser, my protector, my guide, my friend and most recently, my beekeeping partner. He is the best. And I know that a lot of you have followed our story this year as he received a cancer diagnosis, under went some intense surgeries and then weeks of radiation.... and as he kept on showing up for the bees throughout it all. Even this week, in the midst of some pretty awful pain, he was telling me that we need to get out and check on the bees while it's mild. He is the brains behind Bishop Family Bees and our partnership in this wild endeavour has been an absolute delight for both of us. Many of you, when you stop by to pick up some honey, have asked how he is doing. We love that you care enough to ask, and we are grateful for your kind concern.

The very sad truth is that this week we learned that dad's cancer has returned with a vengeance and that it is terminal. He had a lot of pain over the holidays and the diagnosis did not really come as a surprise. There is unlikely to be any treatment and he does not foresee being here for another honey harvest. He has been sharing this news with family and friends over the past couple of days and gave me the go-ahead to share it with you too, because so many of you - complete strangers- have followed his story and cheered him on and sent your blessings during this battle. And we do feel blessed, in spite of the sadness. Ridiculously blessed.

In Dad's own words:
​When looking back over the events of this year, gratitude is the first word that comes to mind as we have much to be grateful for:

• The peace that passes all understanding and keeps our hearts and minds
• The family we have that surrounds us with love and support though separated by the miles
• The friends around the world who have cheered and prayed from afar
• Physicians and nursing staff who became such a part of our lives
• Close friends, neighbors, workmates and Meeting Housers who have stood by us through it all.

Yes, 2016 will be humbly remembered as a time of prayers, hugs, smiles and acts of kindness poured out on us. The peace we have experienced throughout this past year has been nothing short of miraculous! We are so thankful that God walks with us through the good and bad. And for all of you who have prayed and supported us, a big thank you!! 

I'm sure I'll have lots to say about this guy, and this new chapter, in the weeks and months ahead.  But right now I am short on words.  I am only just beginning to process what it will mean to live in a world without this guy, my dad.